Here are the pictures from the launch of the Vande Bharat Express from New Delhi.

Vandhe Bharat Express, also known as Train 18, was launched from New Delhi Railway Station on February 15 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. (Image: Twitter/@BJP4India)

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The train will run from Delhi to Varanasi in nine hours and 45 minutes today. This includes stoppage time of 40 minutes each at Kanpur and Prayagraj. It will be operational five days a week. (Image: PTI)

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The train was produced locally at the Integral Coach Factory in Chennai in 18 months. It can run upto a maximum speed of 160 km per hour. (Image: PTI)

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The train has automated doors, GPS-based passenger information system and onboard WiFi. It also has a regenerative braking system, which saves up to 30 percent electrical energy. (Image: PTI)

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Train 18 has 16 air-conditioned coaches, including two executive class, with a maximum capacity of 1,128 passengers. (Image: PTI)

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The train will run commercially from February 17, and the bookings have already begun. (Image: ANI)

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The semi-high speed train is considered a successor to the Shatabdi Express and will eventually replace the 30-year-old passenger train for intercity travel. (Image: PTI)